Colombia’s range of climates produces an unusually wide choice of fruit and drinks. Many visitors find fresh juice one of the easiest everyday pleasures. This guide covers what to look for and a few safety notes.
Fruit and Juices
Look for lulo, maracuyá (passion fruit), guanábana (soursop), mora (blackberry), tamarillo and others. Juices are usually made fresh and can be ordered with water or milk, so ask which you prefer. If you are sensitive to tap water, ask whether the juice is made with purified water.
Coffee
Coffee is part of daily life. A small black coffee is called a tinto, and café con leche is common at breakfast. For farms, regions and tastings, see Colombian coffee culture and coffee farm visits.
Other Traditional Drinks
- Aguapanela: a hot or cold drink made from unrefined cane sugar, often with lime.
- Chocolate: hot chocolate is traditional in the highlands and often served with cheese.
- Aguardiente: an anise-flavored spirit widely consumed at parties.
- Beer: a range of local lagers and a growing craft beer scene in the big cities.
Drinking Safely
Never leave drinks unattended, and be cautious about accepting drinks from strangers. Drink spiking is a real risk in some nightlife areas. Read the scams guide and nightlife for solo travelers. Altitude can make alcohol hit harder in high cities such as Bogotá.
Water
Tap water quality varies by city, and many visitors use bottled or filtered water. See vaccinations and health for general advice.
For regional dishes see regional cuisine.
